6 Tips for Using Water Softener Pellets

Water softener pellets are salt pellets that are put in the water softener. They remove many of the minerals that are in the water and also soften the water that you use in the house. Adding water softener pellets is the simplest and most convenient way to add salt to the water softener. As with anything, it’s worth knowing how to use them effectively.

1. Amount

The water softener pellets are only going to work properly if you use the correct amount. This will vary depending on the size of the water softener and the type of water softener pellets (most of these are made from solar salt).

Always check the owner’s manual for the softener and the guidelines on the packet of pellets. Follow these carefully or your water softener won’t run efficiently.

2. Mushing

You need to be aware that a phenomenon called mushing can occur with water softener pellets. This occurs when the pellets dissolve into salt crystals that merge together into something called salt sludge.

This sludge stops the solution from further dissolving. When it happens, you must remove the sludge and put in new water softener pellets to start the process again. This is something that only happens with water softener pellets, so you need to keep checking the water softener for it.

3. Clogging

There are more non-sodium ingredients in water softener pellets than in evaporated salt. The solar salt pellets tend to contain 15 percent non-sodium ingredients. These can clog the water softener over time. This means that it’s important you perform the maintenance on the softener as regularly as you’re supposed to, including the cleaning of the unit to prevent this clogging.

4. Adding Pellets

Be aware that there are different methods for adding water softener pellets. Some units require adding the pellets manually, others are semi-automatic, some completely automatic, and yet others add the water softener pellets only when needed. Be aware of which system you have and make sure you have ample pellets in any hopper for automatic addition. It’s vital that you monitor the tank to ensure that the water softener level is always half full for the water softener to operate properly.

5. Changing Salts

You can change from one type of salt to another, at least in theory. However, it’s not recommended, as each type will have a different effect on the water. Similarly, if you have particularly hard water, it’s best if you use evaporated salt rather than water softener pellets, as the evaporated salt will remove more of the minerals and give you softer water. You should never mix different types of salt in the hopper.

6. Scenting

If you decide to scent your water through the water softener, add half the bag of water softener pellets, then half the fragrance. Add the remainder of the pellets, followed by the rest of the fragrance. Be sure that the fragrance isn’t detrimental to the taste of the water. It’s better for showers than anything else.